Manufacturer Warranties
These warranties cover material defects and are provided by the shingle manufacturer:
Most asphalt shingle manufacturers offer 20-30 year warranties. These cover defects like cracking, curling, or granule loss under normal conditions.
Some manufacturers offer 50-year or lifetime warranties. These often require certified installer installation and may include prorated coverage.
Prorated warranties pay less over time. Non-prorated warranties cover full replacement cost for the entire term. Non-prorated is rare and usually requires additional cost.
Some warranties transfer to new homeowners (adding value to your property), while others are non-transferable. Check terms before purchasing.
Workmanship Warranties
These warranties cover installation errors and are provided by the roofing contractor:
Most contractors offer 1-5 year workmanship warranties. Some premium contractors offer 10-year coverage.
Leaks caused by improper installation, nail pops, shingle misalignment, and flashing errors. Does not cover material defects or damage from storms.
Workmanship warranties do not cover damage from extreme weather, lack of maintenance, or improper attic ventilation.
Some contractors offer transferable workmanship warranties, which can increase home value.
What Warranties Typically Do NOT Cover
Common exclusions in both manufacturer and workmanship warranties:
Hail, wind, and other weather damage are covered by insurance, not warranties.
Damage caused by inadequate attic ventilation is typically excluded. Proper ventilation is the homeowner's responsibility.
Failure to maintain gutters, trim branches, or address minor issues can void warranties.
If a manufacturer-certified contractor does not install the shingles, the manufacturer warranty may be void.
Earthquakes, floods, and other extreme events are excluded from most warranties.
Maximizing Your Warranty Coverage
Follow these steps to protect your warranty:
Use a Certified Installer
Many manufacturer warranties require installation by a certified contractor. This ensures proper installation and validates coverage.
Register Your Warranty
Register your warranty with the manufacturer within 30-90 days of installation. Failure to register can void coverage.
Keep Documentation
Save your warranty certificate, installation contract, receipts, and photos of the completed roof.
Maintain Your Roof
Regular inspections, gutter cleaning, and branch trimming help maintain warranty coverage.
Address Issues Promptly
If you notice a problem, contact your contractor or manufacturer immediately. Delaying repairs can void coverage.
Filing a Warranty Claim
If you need to file a warranty claim:
Take photos of the damage or defect. Note the date you noticed the issue.
For workmanship issues, contact your roofer first. They may resolve the problem under warranty.
For material defects, contact the manufacturer with your warranty certificate and photos.
Warranty claims can take weeks to process. Follow up regularly and keep records of all communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do roof warranties last?
Manufacturer warranties typically last 20-50 years. Workmanship warranties from contractors usually last 1-10 years. Extended warranties may cost extra but provide longer coverage.
What is the difference between manufacturer and workmanship warranties?
Manufacturer warranties cover material defects (cracking, granule loss, etc.). Workmanship warranties cover installation errors (leaks from improper installation, nail pops, etc.). Both are important for comprehensive coverage.
Do I need to register my roof warranty?
Yes, most manufacturers require registration within 30-90 days of installation. Failure to register can void coverage. Your roofer should help you register your warranty.
Are roof warranties transferable?
Some manufacturer warranties transfer to new homeowners, which can increase your home's value. Workmanship warranties may or may not be transferable. Check the terms before selling your home.